Hypoparathyroidism

Overview

Hypoparathyroidism refers to insufficient levels of parathyroid hormone synthesis given physiological demands. Historically, hypoparathyroidism was more frequently encountered due to accidental removal of the parathyroid gland during attempted surgical resection of the thyroid gland where parathyroid gland. However, with improvements in surgical and non-surgical techniques of thyroidectomy, previously rare congenital absence of the parathyroid glands now account for a greater proportion of cases. Such a scenario may be encountered as part of DiGeorge/Velocardiofacial Syndrome. Whatever the etiology, the absence of PTH results in the syndrome of hypocalcemia along with hyperphosphatemia.